CreditEducationMonth.com is designed as a first stop for consumers to educate themselves on the importance of actively managing credit, illustrating the impact of credit scores and what influences them, how to read a credit report, and how consumers can take control of their credit situation.

New York-based Fora Financial (Forafinancial.com) advises consumers to understand their personal credit score, which can range from 300 to 850. Fora says personal credit reports containing credit scores and details on what things affected that score can be accessed for free through various websites.

According to ValuePenguin.com, the national average personal credit score in the U. S. is 695.

Fora's experts recommend checking that score frequently, even if you think your credit scores are sufficient. There could be an error on a credit report, or your score could fluctuate depending on whether or not you make payments on-time, among other factors.

If you’re serious about boosting your personal credit score, Fora Financial says a good place to start is by paying bills early or on-time. If paying bills late is a bad habit, set up payment reminders through banking portals so you’re notified before a payment is due.

And while reducing debt is easier said than done, Fora's experts say paying off an outstanding balance can be a great way to improve your credit score. Even if it is reducing it by small amounts, it is important to make an effort to pay off debt.